Tuzo

History

The Tuzo is classed as a hard feather, true bantam as it has no larger counter part. It originates from the USA and Europe, has oriental bloodlines, probably from japan, but it's exact origin is unknown. It is believed that the breed was developed by Japanese nobility, but the original Tuzo is no longer found in Japan. It was first introduced to Britain in the 1970's. The breed has never been mentioned in any Japanese publications, except in a reference 'small Shamo are called Tuzi....', so it is likely that a bantam version of the Shamo was created and this name adopted. They are mainly kept as show birds in poultry shows now.

Behaviour

Like many of the fighting breeds, the Tuzo is a strong, well muscled bird with an upright stance. They do well on a slightly higher protein diet, so supplementing layers pellets with chick crumbs is one option. They are a friendly breed and easy to handle. It is not the hardiest of breeds, so care needs to be taken in colder climates, however it is still a healthy breed and rarely suffers problems. Hens lay small white/tinted eggs around 100 per year, so not that many. Due to their muscular keel, they make clumsy brooders, with eggs often being broken. Males can be aggressive towards other males, but kept in a mixed flock with other bantams, they should be ok.